As part of its commitment to providing readers with cutting-edge technology, Hospitality Upgrade magazine, the No. 1 technology source for the hotel, travel and foodservice industry, has introduced augmented reality (AR) to its summer issue to enhance reader engagement with printed magazine content. Image recognition and augmented reality are quickly gaining popularity as they provide a fun, engaging experience for readers while allowing marketers to create digital representation of their products that can easily be monitored.

Debuted at the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), the summer issue of Hospitality Upgrade will encourage readers to interact with its content by viewing videos, helpful recommendations or special promotions via augmented reality. By using a smartphone or tablet, readers can download the free Layar app (available in the Apple App Store, Google Play Market or at Layar.com) and scan any page of the issue designated with the AR logo, indicating there is an additional layer to the page.

Since the feature was first introduced in the spring issue of Hospitality Upgrade, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. From enhancing editorial content featuring video bios by technology experts and contributing writers in the issue, to exploring social media platforms, websites and exciting product launches via video, AR has changed the way readers typically read Hospitality Upgrade magazine. "We want to provide our readers with the unique experience; to let them know we are more than a magazine," said Publisher Richard Siegel. "This is a fantastic technology that really has come into its own and is a perfect addition to a printed publication. It provides an additional layer of content not previously available, and is enjoyable to use as well."

The addition of augmented reality to Hospitality Upgrade's pages is just one of many new, exciting features the magazine offers. To watch a short video on all the new features offered by Hospitality Upgrade, go to More than a Magazine.

About Hospitality Upgrade

Hospitality Upgrade is the No. 1 source for technology information for the hotel, travel and foodservice industry. The magazine is published three times per year, with a circulation base of 32,000+ opt-in subscribers, and mailed to 109 countries. Hospitality Upgrade is also the exclusive affiliate technology publication of HITEC/HFTP. The magazine is available in print and digital format, and as a free mobile app in the Apple App Store for iPhone and iPad devices, and Google Play for Android smartphones. Hospitality Upgrade's website receives an average of 15,621 monthly visitors and contains information pertaining to recent industry news, events, white papers, case studies, vendor profiles, a "hot shot" technology leader profile and an archive of previous issues and articles. For more information, please visit http://www.HospitalityUpgrade.com.

Geneva Rinehart
Managing Editor
(678) 802-5302